NI ace Currie the number one pick

Fifteen-year-old Lauren Currie’s performances between the posts left the Portadown-born goalkeeper as ‘Player of the Tournament’ at the latest under 17s’ Women’s European Championships qualifying series.

The Portadown Integrated Ladies shot-stopper picked up ‘player-of-the-match’ honours for fine displays in the defeats to Denmark and Spain before securing the overall prize following Northern Ireland’s three-game schedule in Belfast.

Currie and her Northern Ireland colleagues lost out to Denmark and Spain at Solitude before sharing the spoils in a scoreless draw against Ukraine in front of a Seaview crowd.

“Any time away with Northern Ireland is always a brilliant experience but it was especially nice to line out in front of friends and family,” said Currie. “We stayed at Stormont for over a week and the camp really provided an insight into life as a professional.

“We had training sessions, team meetings and recovery time between the three fixtures.

“It was a challenge to face some world-class players but a great test and just enjoyable overall.

“I think we can feel proud about our performance levels in the series.

“I still have time with the under 17s so am just trying to learn as much as possible and continue my development.”

Currie’s focus will turn to club commitments following a season with Portadown Integrated Ladies which resulted in promotion.

“The season will really start next month but we have training and friendlies as part of preparations,” said the teenager. “It is a big season for the club following promotion.”